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If you're unsure of how to do something, don't do it by yourself, better yet ask someone to walk/talk you through it. We've all been there (even the cocky nurses that act like they've never messed up before) have all been in the same situation. It's better to learn than to make a mistake that could cost someone their life and you your license.
1. When ever you have a chance to chart do it ! Don't leave it till the end otherwise you will never leave on time!
2. Leave your dressings for the afternoon when most of the morning rush is over.
3.When you don't know whether to call a doctor regarding a patient concern, consult with your charge nurse or the most senior nurse on your unit- most times you may not need to call.
4. Always help your fellow nurses when they ask for help or when you see that they are struggling to keep up- they will appreciate it and they will likely refer the favor.
5. Never post about work or patient's on social media
After more than 25 years as a nurse, I have learned:
First, when you are getting shift report listen to what the other nurse has to say. Be respectful, clarify what you don't understand. If you feel for one minute, that the nurse left you with a mess, take a deep breath, instead of immediately questioning them why something wasn't done. You don't really know what that person has endured on their shift. A little kindness goes a long way.
Second, take everything with a grain of salt when a nurse tells you that a patient or their family member has ATTITUDE, is drug seeking, or is non-compliant. It may be true or it may not be true. Walk into that patient's room, like you know they are the BEST patient on the unit. Meet their needs, talk to them, and be sure and include their family. Answer all their questions.
Third, if you do not like something about your unit, you have a few options open to you. 1. Yo can complain about it 2. You can ignore it 3. You can get another job 4. You can find a solution to the problem and make things better. (BTW options 1 and 2 are what you REALLY shouldn't do!)
If you use just these three pieces of advice, you will be a much happier, valuable team member in your organization!
Take time for yourself. We as nurses always work hard. We have to remember to take time to do some of the things we love (spending time with family, vacationing, whatever our hearts desire). Taking time for ourselves can help us from becoming mentally drained.
Take care of your mental health. It's easy to neglect but it will catch up to you. I ended up spending almost a week on a psychiatric unit because I took care of everyone but myself.
jewels7278
5 Posts
If you're unsure of how to do something, don't do it by yourself, better yet ask someone to walk/talk you through it. We've all been there (even the cocky nurses that act like they've never messed up before) have all been in the same situation. It's better to learn than to make a mistake that could cost someone their life and you your license.